As I reflect on my blogging, I note a significant change in tone, voice, and content. When I began, I did it for the wrong reasons, driven from ego. Transformation is about one’s self.
Thich Nhat Hanh shared the following about the miracle of being alive:
“People usually consider walking on water or in thin air a miracle. But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth. Every day we are engaged in a miracle which we don’t even recognize: a blue sky, white clouds, green leaves, the black, curious eyes of a child—our own two eyes. All is a miracle.”
Transforming is not the same as change. Change is always happening, often running below the radar. When something or someone transforms, I bear witness to it or that human. I am pulled up short and take a second look, perhaps more. I become aware of the remarkable change, which is part of a larger, less visible cycle. I am aware of the remarkableness of the world and its inhabitants.
Experiencing metamorphosis is about seeing one’s life in its simplicity and ordinary elements, in the extraordinary. In this way, living is the miracle. Just being aware of what surrounds me and what I encounter is the mindfulness that makes life a miracle.
I took this picture of a butterfly. I was aware of its beauty and how it made life fuller.
Merely changing,
Occupies my idle mind.
Denying, silencing–
Another self.
Questioning–
One’s inner terrain.
Who is this self?
What life is this self living?
Maturing,
Emerging,
A chrysalis–
Thoughtful gift.
Flourishing beyond rhetoric,
Journeying with others,
Appreciating–
Valorizing.
ivonprefontaine
Teacher as Transformer 
“But I think the real miracle is not to walk either on water or in thin air, but to walk on earth.” I love this. I say it all the time!
He has so many wonderful quotes.
Ivon, what a lovely, reflective post. For any of us who have been in this space for a number of years, if we are honest, I’m sure we would see our shifts, evolution in our writing and perspectives. I appreciate what you alphabets offered here, very much. Butterflies and other such metamorphoses have clearly been present in my awareness these last few weeks.
Thank you Carrie. I think spring brings that out for me. As the world revives and begins to show itself vitality, I see it more fully. I appreciate the first robin more today than years ago.
This is one of the best posts I have read in a while. I am juggling so many deadlines that I have forgotten to notice the birds, or just appreciate being alive. I’m grateful for the gift of life and that’s all that matters sometimes. That picture paints a million words. Thanks for sharing.🙏
Thank you Seyi. We get caught up in the busyness of life.
Ivon appreciate your reflective turns…always a thoughtful post…I’ve seen some blue purple butterflies no orange yet! Beauty such a gift 🤗🧡 smiles Hedy
Thank you Hedy.
Thanks for the reminder that we are constantly changing. What was important yesterday no longer captures our attention. The older I get the more I appreciate the little things in life and take time to observe the world around me.
I agree Bev. Things I rushed past 40 years ago I am more inclined to see more fully today.
This is particularly relevant as our world makes irrevocable changes that will alter the way we live in the world. I appreciate the redirection back to the miraculous aspects of life! C
It is probably more relevant in times of rapid and unforseeable change. This came on us so quickly we do need to see the extraordinary and miraculous in life.
I am a thoughtful gift😊
Each of us are.
Hello Ivan — thank you for this beautiful and thoughtful post. My husband is in a long, slow, not linear and often frustrating healing process with his hips and legs, repairing damage from early childhood beatings. He has been a student of “Thay’s” for years and has often quoted the paragraph above. Now, my husband is literally walking barefoot on the Earth each day, mindfully acknowledging the miracle of that human-Gaia energy connection as part of his healing journey. Thay also speaks of “kissing the Earth with our feet”. Each step is an opportunity for us to experience the miracle of Life around us. Blessings on your day, Alia
There is much to be found in Thay’s writings. He is so insightful. Thank you for stopping and sharing Alia. Take care and stay safe.